UPDATE: SECOND CITY Moves or Cancels Shows Through 9/20 Due to Fire Damage

By: Sep. 04, 2015
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As BWW reported last month, a multi-alarm fire ripped through the offices of Chicago's reknown Second City theater company in Old Town, injuring four firefighters and another person on August 26th. Fortunately, the flames did not reach the adjacent building where the troupe's theater stages are located. According to the Office of Fire Investigations, the blaze, which began at approximately 1 pm, was caused by a grease fire at the neighboring Adobo Grill restaurant.

The Chicago Tribune reports that Second City announced today that it will be moving or canceling all performances scheduled in its Mainstage, e.t.c. Stage and UP Comedy Club theaters through Sept. 20 as the legendary troupe continues to clean up after the fire.

In a statement issued today, Second City CEO Andrew Alexander commented, "After 10 days, it's clear this process will take more time than originally anticipated. While the theaters were left in very good condition, there are issues with common areas as well as smoke and water damage that must be addressed before we allow talent, staff and audiences in any of our spaces."

In addition, Hammond explained that ticketholders will be contacted by Second City box office representatives to receive refunds or to book a performance at a later date. Performances by The Second City Mainstage cast have scheduled improv sets at The Annoyance Theatre that will be free to the public. More information will be posted on SecondCity.com.

The improvisational comedy troupe Second City began in 1950s, as small groups of undergraduates, including young actors such as Mike Nichols and Elaine May, who met at Jimmy's Woodlawn Tap, a bar on the University of Chicago campus.

The Second City Theatre opened on December 16, 1959 and has since expanded its presence to several other cities, including Toronto and Los Angeles. The Second City has produced television programs in both the United States and Canada including SCTV, Second City Presents, and Next Comedy Legend. Since its debut, the Second City has consistently been a starting point for comedians, award winning actors, directors, and others in show business.

Photo: Second City Facebook



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